4 Months Info

Four Month Old

Your baby has personality! And, she's found her
voice. At about four months old, babies are cooing, giggling and even
imitating sounds. The brain is developing rapidly and you will be
amazed at how much your baby absorbs in one day. This is an important
time to talk, sing and read to your baby. She may not understand the
meaning of every word, but her memory and attention span are constantly
increasing.

Something else that is increasing; your baby's
appetite! The birth weight should be about doubled by this time and
that means your baby is hungrier, consuming up to five ounces at some
feedings. You may feel it's time to start your baby on cereal, but this
may not be a good idea. Most pediatricians recommend waiting until
your baby reaches six months of age before starting rice cereal, baby
foods, or any solid foods. Furthermore, the American Academy of
Pediatrics recommends that a baby should also be able to sit up without
assistance and reach for food before starting on solid foods. Research
shows, babies are at less risk of obesity later in life, if cereal and
solid foods are not offered until six months of age.

Your four
month old should be sleeping four to six hours straight during the
night. It's okay to try and comfort baby back to sleep at this time, as
she is now able to go without a middle-of-the-night feeding.

Motor
skills are beginning to blossom and you'll see your baby passing toys
between her hands and rolling over to reach what she wants. Now is a
good time to start "baby proofing" your home as she is becoming more
mobile.

Call your doctor immediately if your baby has a fever of
101 F or higher, or is experiencing noticeable, labored breathing. It
could be a sign of respiratory distress.